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Wisconsin Postnuptial Agreement

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POSTNUPTIAL AGREEMENT

READ BEFORE SIGNING: IMPORTANT NOTICE:

Each party to this agreement agrees that they have had an opportunity to consult with an attorney of their choice licensed to practice law in their state of residence (not the same attorney) and that they have fully read, understand and agree to the terms of this agreement. Each party further agrees that they are not acting under duress or undue influence in executing this agreement and that execution of same is done freely and voluntarily.

This Agreement, made this day of , 2, between

(Name), of (Address), ("first party or Wife"), and (Name), of (Address), ("second party or Husband"),

W I T N E S S E T H

WHEREAS, Wife and Husband are now married, having been married on the day of , 2, in County, ;

WHEREAS, the parties now desire to enter into this agreement to clarify and establish their respective and collective rights, titles and interests in the separate and joint property of the parties, in the event of divorce, death or other circumstances that would serve to terminate their marriage, but without the present intent of either party to obtain a divorce or a legal separation;

WHEREAS, by execution of this agreement, the parties warrant and represent that they have fully disclosed their financial status, including all assets, liabilities, and income, as listed in the financial statement disclosures, attached as Exhibits A and B;

WHEREAS, the parties agree that this agreement is to be effective upon execution in accordance with the applicable laws of the State of Wisconsin;

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual promises, covenants, warranties and other benefits and advantages accruing to each party, the parties agree as set forth above and below as follows:

SECTION 1
SEPARATE PROPERTY

Each of the parties shall retain full control of his or her own separate property, real, personal and mixed owned at the time of execution of this agreement and described in Exhibits A and B, wherever the property is located. By the terms of this agreement, each party hereby waives and relinquishes all claim to the separate property of the other. Each of the parties shall have and hereby is given the right to lease, sell, convey, mortgage or otherwise dispose of their separate property and receive all monies, rents, issues, income and profits thereof without any restrictions and without interference from the other party. Each of the parties shall be responsible for satisfying any tax obligations regarding his or her separate property. Despite any other provisions of this instrument, this agreement shall not affect in any way the parties' rights, titles, powers, duties, discretions, immunities and interest in any property owned in joint tenancy or entirety with rights of survivorship.

SECTION 2
JOINT PROPERTY

The parties agree that all property not specifically designated as separate property shall be deemed to be part of their joint estates and considered their joint property. By the terms of this agreement, the parties evidence their intent to grant the powers and rights to the parties as to jointly owned property as is provided to spouses by operation of law.

SECTION 3
SEPARATION AND DIVORCE

To the extent permitted by law, this agreement shall govern the rights and obligations of the parties in the event of death of either or both parties, separation or divorce. Although the parties do not presently intend to separate or divorce, the parties agree this agreement shall be binding on both parties in the event of separation or divorce, and shall, if applicable, and allowed by law, be incorporated into any divorce decree.

In the event of separation or divorce, the parties agree that the following types of property will be designated as either the separate or joint property of the parties:

(a) All property acquired by each party in their own name and/or with the use of their own assets or income prior to the execution of this agreement:

(b) All property acquired by each party in their own name and/or with the use of their own assets or income after the execution of this agreement:

(c) All property acquired in the joint names of both parties and/or with the use of joint assets or income prior to the execution of this agreement:

(d) All property acquired in the joint names of both parties and/or with the use of joint assets or income after the execution of this agreement:

(e) All property acquired in exchange for or from the sale proceeds of property owned by either party prior to the execution of this agreement:

(f) All property acquired in exchange for or from the sale proceeds of property owned by either party after the execution of this agreement:

(g) All property acquired in exchange for or from the sale proceeds of property owned by both parties before execution of this agreement:

(h) All property acquired in exchange for or from the sale proceeds of property owned by both parties after execution of this agreement:

(i) All monetary awards or settlements resulting from a lawsuit or other legal proceeding involving either party before the execution of this agreement:

(j) All monetary awards or settlements resulting from a lawsuit or other legal proceeding involving either party after the execution of this agreement:

(k) All monetary awards or settlements resulting from a lawsuit or other legal proceeding involving both parties before the execution of this agreement:

(l) All monetary award or settlements resulting from a lawsuit or other legal proceeding involving both parties after the execution of this agreement:

(m) All insurance proceeds received by either party before execution of this agreement:

(n) All insurance proceeds received by either party after execution of this agreement:

(o) All insurance proceeds received by both parties before execution of this agreement:

(p) All insurance proceeds received by both parties after execution of this agreement:

(q) All gambling or lottery winnings received by either party before execution of this agreement:

(r) All gambling or lottery winnings received by either party after execution of this agreement:

(s) All earnings, salary, wages, bonuses, commissions or dividends of either party received or earned before the execution of this agreement:

(t) All earnings, salary, wages, bonuses, commissions or dividends of either party received or earned after the execution of this agreement:

(u) Other:

or

(a) The Wife shall be entitled to receive property of Husband described as follows:

(b) The Husband shall be entitled to receive property of Wife described as follows:

(c) The following property shall be sold and the proceeds, less expenses, divided equally between the parties:

(d) The marital domicile shall be:

SECTION 4
DEBTS AND LIABILITIES

The parties agree that each party shall pay the debts and liabilities incurred prior to execution of this agreement in that party’s name as separate property, and in no case shall either party be held liable for the debts and liabilities incurred in the other party’s name prior to execution of this agreement, but that the parties shall jointly pay for the debts and liabilities incurred in both parties’ names prior to the execution of this agreement as joint property; or the parties shall jointly pay the debts and liabilities incurred prior to the execution of this agreement in one or both party’s name as joint property.

The parties further agree that each party shall pay the debts and liabilities incurred after the execution of this agreement in that party’s name as separate property, and in no case shall either party be held liable for the debts and liabilities incurred in the other party’s name after the execution of this agreement, but that the parties shall jointly pay for the debts and liabilities incurred in both parties’ names after the execution of this agreement as joint property; or the parties shall jointly pay for the debts and liabilities incurred after the execution of this agreement in either one or both parties’ names as joint property.

SECTION 5
WAIVER OF MARITAL RIGHTS TO ESTATE

or Each of the parties hereby waives and releases to the other any and all of his or her right, title and interest of every kind and description in any and all property acquired by the other party by inheritance or other means and to all or a portion of the property of the other party which he or she may have, acquire, enjoy or be seized by reason of, or during or after, their marriage, as the wife, husband, widow or widower of the other party, whether by way of dower, courtesy, homestead, widow's allowance, statutory share or provision, descent, community property inheritance, succession or otherwise.

SECTION 6
VOLUNTARY GIFTS

Nothing contained in this agreement is intended to preclude either party from voluntarily making provision for, or granting powers or rights to, the other party in and by the party’s last will and testament, a codicil thereto or otherwise.

SECTION 7
WAIVER OF RIGHTS TO PENSION/RETIREMENT FUNDS

or Each party agrees that he or she shall retain all of the rights, titles and interests in the pension or other retirement plan or account in his or her name prior to and after execution of this agreement, including any income accruing or accrued from such plan or account and any increases in the value of such plan or account that result from depositing separate assets or income. The parties agree that regardless of the source of funds used in any pension, retirement or other deferred compensation plans or accounts, each party may maintain and continue such plans or accounts and each party waives any rights, titles and interests in the other’s plans or accounts.

SECTION 8
ADDITIONAL OR FURTHER DOCUMENTS; COOPERATION

Each party agrees that he or she will sign and execute any further or additional documents as may be necessary to put into effect the intended purposes of this agreement, such as any deeds, bills of sale, assignments, affidavits, tax forms or other instruments of transfer and title that are required in order to establish the parties’ respective rights in their separate and joint property. The designation of property as separate or joint, however, shall not be affected by a party’s failure to execute a necessary document, but the terms of this agreement shall control such designation.

SECTION 9
ENTIRE AGREEMENT

This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the parties pertaining to its subject matter and it supersedes all prior contemporaneous agreements, representations and understandings of the parties. No supplement, modification or amendment of this Agreement shall be binding unless executed in writing by all parties.

SECTION 10
AMENDMENT OR REVOCATION

The parties agree to reserve the right to amend or revoke this agreement during the joint lives of the parties and the parties’ marriage by a written amendment or revocation signed by both parties.

SECTION 11
ABSENCE OF DURESS OR UNDUE INFLUENCE

The parties agree and state that each has freely and voluntarily entered into this agreement. This agreement was executed free of any duress, coercion, collusion, or undue influence, and the terms of this agreement are not unconscionable, but are fair, just, and equitable. Both parties were provided prior to execution of this agreement a fair and reasonable disclosure of the property and financial obligations of the other party and each party had, or reasonably could have had, an adequate knowledge of the property and financial obligations of the other party.

SECTION 12
SEVERABILITY

If any portion of the agreement shall be held to be invalid or unenforceable for any reason, then all the remaining parts or portions shall be construed, implemented and administered in full force and effect as if such invalid or unenforceable portion did not appear herein.

SECTION 13
CONTROLLING LAW

This agreement shall be controlled, construed and given effect by and under the laws of the State of Wisconsin. It is the intent of the parties that the Agreement be enforced to the fullest extent permissible under applicable laws and public policies.

SECTION 14
SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS

This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the parties hereto and their respective successors, assigns, executors, administrators, and legal representatives.

SECTION 15
MISCELLANEOUS CLAUSES

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this agreement on the day and year first above written.

FIRST PARTY (“WIFE”)

SECOND PARTY (“HUSBAND”)

Approved:

Attorney for First Party:

Attorney for Second Party:

Note: This agreement must be executed before a notary public.

NOTARY ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

STATE OF

COUNTY OF

This instrument acknowledged before me on this the day of , 20 by .

(Seal)

Notary Public, State of

My Commission Expires:

STATE OF

COUNTY OF

This instrument acknowledged before me on this the day of , 20 by .

(Seal)

Notary Public, State of

My Commission Expires:

EXHIBIT A
FINANCIAL STATEMENT DISCLOSURE OF WIFE

I. Assets (Describe all assets considered separate property of Wife, including approximate value)

a. Real Estate

b. Bank Accounts and Cash (including life insurance cash value, and the numbers, names and banks of all financial, checking and savings accounts)

c. Trusts

d. Vehicles (including year, make and model)

e. Other (including securities, stocks, bonds, pension/retirement plans or accounts, etc.)

II. Debts (Describe all debts and liabilities, including all notes payable, mortgages, loans, etc.)

III. Annual Income (including salary, bonus, commissions, dividends, etc.) (Attach copy of Federal Income Tax Return and most recent paycheck stub.)

EXHIBIT B
FINANCIAL STATEMENT DISCLOSURE OF HUSBAND

I. Assets (Describe all assets considered separate property of Husband, including approximate value)

a. Real Estate

b. Bank Accounts and Cash (including life insurance cash value, and the numbers, names and banks of all financial, checking and savings accounts)

c. Trusts

d. Vehicles (including year, make and model)

e. Other (including securities, stocks, bonds, pension/retirement plans or accounts, etc.)

II. Liabilities or Debts (Describe all debts and liabilities, including all notes payable, mortgages, loans, etc.)

III. Annual Income (including salary, bonus, commissions, dividends, etc.) (Attach copy of Federal Income Tax Return and most recent paycheck stub as proof of income.)

Enter text

What a Wisconsin Postnuptial Agreement Is and When It Applies

A Wisconsin Postnuptial Agreement is a written contract entered into by spouses after marriage to set out property rights, debt allocation, spousal support terms, and other financial or contractual arrangements. Unlike a premarital agreement, a postnuptial is executed during the marriage and can address changes in circumstances such as new assets, inheritance, business interests, or separation plans. Properly drafted and executed, it clarifies expectations between parties and can reduce litigation risk by creating enforceable rules for division or management of property under state law and applicable contract principles.

Why Couples Use a Wisconsin Postnuptial Agreement

A postnuptial agreement provides predictability about asset division, clarifies ownership of newly acquired property, and can allocate responsibility for debts and financial obligations. It can protect business interests, specify spousal support arrangements, and reduce uncertainty if the marriage ends or one spouse dies.

Why Couples Use a Wisconsin Postnuptial Agreement

Who Typically Prepares and Signs a Postnuptial Agreement

The agreement is usually prepared with legal counsel for each spouse and executed by both parties to ensure enforceability and reduce later dispute risk.

  • High-net-worth couples seeking to protect business or investment assets from marital division
  • Spouses with significant premarital property, inheritance expectations, or family business interests
  • Partners who acquired debt, real estate, or professional practice after marriage and want clear allocation

Step-by-Step: Completing a Wisconsin Postnuptial Agreement

Follow a sequential process to reduce errors: prepare, review, authenticate, and retain final copies with supporting exhibits and acknowledgements.

  • 01
    Prepare Draft: Collect asset lists, debts, and supporting documents before drafting.
  • 02
    Legal Review: Have separate counsel review for fairness and disclosure compliance.
  • 03
    Execution: Sign in presence of required witnesses or notary as applicable.
  • 04
    Record & Store: Keep originals safe; provide copies to counsel and relevant institutions.

Primary Elements to Include in a Professional Agreement

A well-drafted postnuptial addresses property classification, spousal support, business interests, disclosure obligations, dispute resolution, and procedures for amendment or termination.

Property Classification

Define separate and marital property, including specific assets and treatment of future acquisitions, to reduce ambiguity during valuation or division.

Support Provisions

Specify spousal support (if any), including amounts, duration, triggering events, and any waiver of maintenance, stated clearly to meet enforceability standards.

Business Interests

Describe the treatment of existing and future business ownership, valuation method, buyout terms, and rights upon divorce or death to protect operational continuity.

Disclosure Clause

Include full financial disclosure obligations for both parties; material nondisclosure can be a basis for later challenge or invalidation.

Amendment Procedures

Set out how the agreement may be modified or revoked, including required signatures, notarization, and any witness requirements.

Dispute Resolution

Identify governing law and specify mediation, arbitration, or court jurisdiction to streamline resolution and reduce litigation costs.

Essential Data and Identifiers to Include

Party Names: Legal names of both spouses
Dates: Effective and execution dates
Property IDs: Addresses or account numbers
Consideration: Specific amounts or benefits
Notary Info: Notarial statement and seal
Witnesses: Names and signatures if required

Common Risks and Legal Consequences of Errors

Undisclosed Assets: May render agreement unenforceable
Coerced Consent: Risk of rescission for undue influence
Improper Execution: Notarization/witness errors can invalidate
Ambiguous Terms: Creates litigation and expensive interpretation
Insufficient Consideration: Courts may refuse enforcement
Statutory Conflict: State law may override certain provisions

Frequent Mistakes to Avoid When Preparing the Agreement

  • Failing to disclose all assets and liabilities, which can lead to later invalidation or re-litigation
  • Using vague language for key terms such as valuation method, effective date, or what counts as separate property
  • Relying on a single attorney without advising the other spouse to seek independent counsel when fairness is questioned
  • Skipping notarization or required witness attestations based on incorrect assumptions about state rules

Where to Send, File, and Store the Final Agreement

After execution, route copies to counsel, retain originals in a secure location, and provide certified copies to relevant institutions such as banks or business partners.

  • Counsel: For retention and enforcement reference
  • Notary / County Clerk: If recording or acknowledgement is advisable
  • Financial Institutions: Provide copies for account titling or beneficiary records
  • Personal Records: Store originals in a safe or secure repository

Typical Digital Workflow for Completing a Postnuptial Agreement

Configure a secure signing workflow that ensures identity verification, document integrity, and retention of a tamper-evident audit trail.

Field Configuration
Upload Document PDF or DOCX
Add Signers Order or parallel signing
Authentication Email, SMS, or advanced options
Audit Trail Enable IP, timestamp logging

Digital Signing and File Format Considerations

Ensure the chosen solution can produce a tamper-evident signed PDF, allow notarization workflows if needed, and meet any industry compliance requirements.

  • Formats: PDF, DOCX supported
  • Integrations: Works with CRM and storage
  • Security: TLS and AES encryption

Timing Considerations and Execution Deadlines

While there is no statutory filing deadline for a postnuptial agreement, timely execution and full disclosure at the time of signing strengthen enforceability and reduce challenge risk.

Execution Timing:

Sign when both parties are fully informed and not under duress

Disclosure Window:

Complete full financial disclosures before signing

Amendment Notice:

Provide written notice and follow amendment procedures

Notarization Schedule:

Notarize at signing if recommended or required

Record Retention:

Retain originals indefinitely or per counsel advice

eSignature Pricing and Feature Comparison for Executing the Agreement

Compare common eSignature providers by starting price, trial availability, bulk send, audit trail, HIPAA compliance, and envelope or session caps when choosing a platform for execution.

signNow DocuSign Adobe Sign PandaDoc HelloSign
Starting Price $8/user/mo $15/user/mo $14/user/mo $19/user/mo $15/user/mo
Free Trial 7-day free trial Varies Varies Varies Varies
Bulk Send Yes (premium) Yes Yes Yes No
Audit Trail Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
HIPAA Compliant Yes (BAA available) Yes Yes No No
Envelope Cap No cap 100 envelopes/user/year Varies Varies Varies

Frequently Asked Questions About Wisconsin Postnuptial Agreements

Answers to common execution, enforceability, and amendment questions to help parties avoid procedural mistakes and preserve enforceability.


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